Therapeutic Massage vs Relaxation Massage

Do you know the differences between therapeutic massages vs relaxation massages? 
 
We’re going to go into the differences between the two types of massage and their respective health benefits. This will help to inform and choose what type of massage therapy is best for you.

Therapeutic vs Relaxation Massage - Which Do I Ask For?

In order to choose what type of massage you need, you should explain your needs, reveal areas of chronic pain, and mention any notable injuries. What type of discomfort you’re experiencing directly addresses your choice between therapeutic and relaxation massage.

Relaxation Massage

​A relaxation massage focuses on easing muscle tension and reducing stress. A Swedish massage, for example, uses smaller, rhythmic motions which improves circulation to the muscle and connective tissue throughout the body. As it improves blood flow, you’ll feel your body to let go of built-up tension and maybe even fall asleep.
 
This type of massage session is great for dealing with everyday discomfort and provides an outlet that encourages much-needed relaxation.

Therapeutic Massage

​While one could argue that all massage is therapeutic, this generally refers to massage therapy that targets specific problem areas. Its goal is to encourage healing and restore range of motion that stems from deep-seated issues. Regular massages can promote recovery from damage caused by myofascial trigger points (knots), scar tissue from injury or accident, or other underlying problems.
 
This type of massage, typically prescribed with clinics as opposed to a regular spa treatment, will often include deep tissue massage. The process involves heightened amounts of pressure, which might use the hands or even elbows to reach deep into the muscle. This is often necessary and one of the only ways to alleviate severe pain caused by accidents, sports injuries, or chronic conditions like sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome.

What Are the Health Benefits?

Massage therapy provides long-standing health benefits that affect your overall well-being. By encouraging reduced stress, relaxation massages improve blood flow, relieve cramps, lower anxiety, prevent injury, and reduce blood pressure. This relaxed, optimal state then also improves immune function, and heightens lymphatic and circulatory functions. 
 
Therapeutic massage provides much of the same as well as relief for chronic pain. Aside from pain medication, massage can often be the only way to alleviate ongoing conditions. However, the addition of deep tissue pressure and limb manipulation can actually help heal injuries faster. It also restores range of motion to the muscles and improves flexibility. Best of all, you’ll likely get the greatest night’s sleep you’ve had in some time after a quality massage. 

Therapeutic vs Relaxation Massage - Choose Either at In-Home Therapeutic Massage

​For all of your massage therapy needs, call In-Home Therapeutic Massage. We are massage experts who specialize in providing mental and physical relief to those in need. Whether you need to blow off some steam and relax with a soft tissue relaxation massage or find injury relief with deep tissue massage, we can help. 
 
To schedule your next massage therapy appointment, call us today at (763)-290-1563. We’ll come to you wherever you are!